Police Investigate 14 Murders So Far In 2012

HUNTSVILLE, Ala (WHNT) — In 2012 Huntsville police investigated 14 murders. Six of them have been resolved with eight cases still open, investigators say.

The homicide numbers are “average” for the city that sees far fewer murders than other similar sized cities in the region, according to police. In 2011, there were a total of 13 murders, 11 of those were closed, two are still open cases.

“We are at crucial points with several (cases) and I expect arrests or warrants issued in the near future,” Huntsville Police Department Spokesman Harry Hobbs reported.

In 2012 investigators did make quick work of several homicide cases. Police closed the case of the murder of 17-year-old Damon Groce, who was shot in the head and killed during an apparent drive-by on Eastbrook Drive on September 15. Police arrested Rodney Jones Jr. and Jessica Martin for the murder.